Delaware Healthy Children Program
The Delaware Healthy Children Program is a low-cost health insurance program for Delaware’s uninsured children, featuring the same high-quality coverage as some of the best private insurance plans
- Agency
- Delaware Department of Health and Social Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 302-255-9040, 302-744-4556
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The Delaware Healthy Children Program is a low-cost health insurance program for Delaware’s uninsured children, featuring the same high-quality coverage as some of the best private insurance plans.
The Delaware Healthy Children Program is a low-cost health insurance program for Delaware’s uninsured children, featuring the same high-quality coverage as some of the best private insurance plans.
Images & PDFs
GRAND: Grandparents Raising and Nurturing Dependent Children
A resource book from Delaware Health and Social Services aimed at supporting grandparents and other relative caregivers raising children. It covers helpful services and information specific to Delaware.
View Full ImagePartnership Roster Delaware Public Health District
An infographic detailing Delaware County's public health initiatives, focusing on reducing school absences, improving food security, and reducing instances of suicide and traffic injuries.
View Full ImageVisual Impaired Guide 2009-2010
A guide providing services and resources for visually impaired Delawareans, created by Delaware Health and Social Services.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Overcoming Stigma: The Case for Public Health Support Programs
9/5/2021 | Coverage: national
This report focuses on the societal stigma associated with receiving public health support and how programs like the Delaware Healthy Children Program work to change perceptions.
Source: American Public Health Association
Coverage Area: national
Rising Costs and the Need for Expanded Child Health Benefits
3/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This national study addresses how the increasing costs of living and stagnant wages necessitate a reevaluation of child health benefit programs like Delaware Healthy Children.
Source: National Center for Children in Poverty
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Delaware Healthy Children Program on Health and Well-Being
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report analyzes the positive outcomes associated with the Delaware Healthy Children Program, emphasizing its role in improving health metrics and reducing financial burdens for families.
Source: Delaware Division of Public Health
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Increased Eligibility and Coverage Options
1/1/2015Delaware revised its eligibility criteria and increased benefits for the Healthy Children Program, focusing on preventive care.
Affordable Care Act Implementation
3/23/2010The ACA provided states with additional funding and incentives to expand Medicaid, indirectly benefiting CHIP and programs like Delaware's.
Program Expansion to Cover More Families
2/1/2006The program was expanded to cover families with incomes up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Delaware Healthy Children Program Launch
1/1/1999Delaware launched its Healthy Children Program to provide health coverage to uninsured children from families with low and moderate incomes.
Establishment of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
8/5/1997Creation of CHIP provided states with the option to expand health coverage for children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage.
FAQ
To apply for the DHCP, you can complete an application online, by mail, or in person at your local Department of Health and Social Services office. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including proof of income and residency.
Before applying, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Proof of child’s age (birth certificate, etc.)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreements, etc.)
- Completed application form
Having these documents prepared will streamline your application process.
To complete your application process, follow these steps:
- Visit the DHCP website for the online application
- Print and fill out the paper application if preferred
- Gather all necessary documents as outlined
- Submit your application via your chosen method
Once submitted, you will receive notification regarding your application status.
Reference: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/dhcp.html
Application processing times may vary based on volume and completeness of the submission.
The Delaware Healthy Children Program (DHCP) provides health insurance coverage for uninsured children in Delaware. It is designed to ensure that all children have access to necessary medical services, including regular check-ups, immunizations, and emergency care.
Reference: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/dhcp.html
This program is subject to eligibility requirements and availability of funding.
Eligibility for the DHCP generally includes children under the age of 19 who are residents of Delaware and meet certain income requirements. Families must also be uninsured to qualify for the program.
To determine eligibility, please check the following:
- Child must be under 19 years of age
- Must be a resident of Delaware
- Household income must meet the program guidelines
- Must be uninsured
If your child meets all of the above criteria, they may qualify for the program.
